Tunisia have made a dramatic decision to part ways with head coach Sabri Lamouchi just one match into their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, following a crushing 5-1 loss to Sweden in their Group F opener on Sunday.

In a swift response to the heavy defeat, the Tunisian Football Federation (FTF) acted immediately after the final whistle, with French journalist Romain Molina reporting that Lamouchi’s contract was terminated without delay.

The North African side suffered a torrid evening as Sweden’s relentless attack tore through their defence repeatedly. The 5-1 result stands as one of the most lopsided defeats in Tunisia’s World Cup history. Adding to the blow, Yasin Ayari found the net against the nation of his father’s birth, further deepening Tunisia’s misery.

Reports suggest that beyond the on-field embarrassment, growing friction within the dressing room also played a key role in Lamouchi’s dismissal. His short-lived tenure, spanning just five matches across all competitions, was marred by a lack of unity between the coaching staff and players. The mounting pressure of the global stage proved too much to sustain his position.

As the Carthage Eagles regroup, they are expected to turn to a familiar figure to stabilise the team. Former manager Mondher Kebaier is considered the leading candidate to assume charge on an interim basis ahead of a crucial clash with Japan on June 20. However, reports also indicate that ex-Sunderland and Tunisia forward Wahbi Khazri is being considered as an alternative option for the top job.

Tunisia’s decision to replace their coach mid-tournament sets an unwanted precedent. Lamouchi becomes the first manager to be officially dismissed while the 2026 World Cup is still ongoing, underscoring the federation’s dissatisfaction with the Frenchman’s leadership.

With the federation feeling there was no viable path forward under the current setup, the move was made before the second group-stage fixture. Tunisia’s challenge remains formidable, with Japan up next, followed by a demanding final group-stage encounter against the Netherlands.